The vast undercover area was like walking into a forest, making Wine and Dine in the Stick Shed, a unique and breathtaking experience. The first-time event, showcased not only the fabulous location but also local produce at its best.
The Stick Shed History
The Murtoa Stick shed is arguably one of the most interesting and unique buildings in Australia. Built in 1941, it is the only remaining emergency grain store built during World War Two. Grain was stored in the shed, as it could not be exported at the time.
Entrance signage
As stated on the entrance signage, The Stick Shed is a National Heritage listed, cultural icon. In recent years it has undergone extensive restoration work. The sheer size of the shed is impressive. Constructed using natural mountain ash poles, there are an astounding 560 poles inside supporting the roof, hence the name ‘The Stick Shed’.
Wine and Dine
At the start of the evening, guests were greeted with a generous glass of sparkling wine and served delicious canapes. The lavosh cup with smoked labne and bacon jam was scrumptious.
The MC welcomed everyone and introduced the committee members that had made the fabulous event possible. The guests cleared a path for the committee to walk through and draw back the curtains to reveal the stunning dining room. The unmilled tall timber poles, with the long dining table in the central aisle, drew your eye upwards. The lighting provided a dramatic, magical effect.
The Chefs
Rosa Mitchell
Deirdre Baum
Nicky Riemer
Lauren Eldridge
The fine dining experience included four courses created by the four professional chefs, with each course matched with a wine from the Grampians and Pyrenees regions.
The quality of the food was outstanding, made using the finest local ingredients. With entrée, main and dessert presented as delicious shared plates. Guests made a selecton from two matched wines per course, beer was also available.
Logistics
In addition to the spectacular venue and mouth-watering food, I was in awe of the logistics of holding such an event. So much hard work went into every little detail. For instance, overcoming challenges such as food prep needing to be held off site at the Murtoa College.
It was wonderful to see the incredible work of such a passionate community. The volunteer waitstaff were very friendly and did a great job ensuring that above all, the guests had an enjoyable evening.
Local artists Kessia Brooke and Jordan Hill strummed their guitars throughout the night. The music playing in the background and the wonderful acoustics made it a very unique dining experience. The elements from nature and decorations also added to whimsical ambiance.
Kath Venters, Kate Eats and Carli Lamb
Fabulous Experience
The Stick Shed was the perfect setting to take a moment to slow down and appreciate the good things in life. Dining in the structure that feels like a massive forest of trees was a fabulous experience, which will never be forgotten. The event was a brilliant success and an example of what small communities can do. Delicious locally sourced produce, brilliant chefs, and an amazing community coming together for a magical evening.
The Details: Wine and Dine in The Stick Shed 2019
Date: Saturday 30 March, 2019
Location: 1465 Wimmera Highway, Murtoa, Victoria, Australia
Venue: The Stick Shed, Murtoa
Number of guests: 200
Cost: $160 – Beverages included: includes a glass of sparkling and matched wines
Stick Shed Committee Members: Michelle Reid, Madeline Barbe, Sam Chenoweth, Renee Dumesny and Mikaela Reading
Additional Contributors: Murtoa Progress Association, Sponsors, the Chefs, volunteer waitstaff and the wider community who supported the event. Money raised will fund future events or be reinvested into the community.
The outside of The Stick Shed
